Tri CLE Rock Roll Run & Play Gap Celebrate National Women’s Sports Week
In celebration of National Women’s Sports Week (June 23-29), two Cleveland-based and women-led organizations, Tri CLE Rock Roll Run and Play Gap, are proud to announce a new partnership that champions women in sports on and off the field.
Tri CLE, an inclusive multisport event celebrating its 5th anniversary this August, and Play Gap, a nonprofit working to keep women engaged in athletics from age 18 and beyond, are joining forces to spotlight the barriers and the breakthroughs that shape women’s experiences in sport.
“Building a sports organization alongside other women leaders has been a beautiful experience. The relatability, trust, and transparency comes naturally from the beginning, so we’ve been intentional to maintain that culture as we’ve grown over the years,” said Elise Vue, Co-founder and Director of Marketing for Play Gap.
This year’s Tri CLE Rock Roll Run takes place Sunday, August 10, 2025, at Edgewater Park and features Super Sprint, Sprint, and Olympic-distance triathlons, aquabikes, duathlons, and relays. The event welcomes youth (ages 13-19) and adult participants with male, female, and non-binary categories.
Behind the scenes, Tri CLE is powered by a team of women leaders, including Natalie McManamon, Event Director, Melanie Prohska, Marketing & Communications Director, and Jessica Yeager, Volunteer & Community Outreach Director. Natalie and Melanie are also both USA Triathlon Level I Certified Race Directors.
Play Gap is also driven by women with a commitment to inclusivity and access to sport. Founders Barb Anthony and Elise Vue have grown Play Gap from a regional alliance in 2018 to a national 501(c)(3) nonprofit. Play Gap connects women to teams and leagues to help them stay active physically and gain the mental health and social benefits of athletics.
Tri CLE has similar goals. “Our race is not just about competition, it’s about community,” said Natalie McManamon. “We are proud to uplift women in all roles, as athletes, leaders, and advocates. Working alongside Play Gap enhances our commitment to representation and access within the local community and beyond.”
Throughout National Women’s Sports Week, both organizations will share stories from women athletes, coaches, and organizers to inspire others to participate as well. Follow them on social media @PlayGapSports and @TriCLE_rock_roll_run for the latest stories and highlights.
For media inquiries, interviews, or more information about how Tri CLE and Play Gap are celebrating National Women’s Sports Week, please contact Jessica Yeager, jessica.yeager@rockrollrun.com, or Elise Vue, elise@play-gap.org.
